Karwa Chauth: What to do if you experience dizziness, weakness, or anxiety during the *nirjala* (waterless) fast? Find out..
Karwa Chauth Fasting: The Karwa Chauth fast holds great significance for married women. On this day, women observe a *nirjala* (waterless) fast, praying for their husbands' longevity and a happy marital life. However, going without food and water for the entire day can sometimes lead to issues such as dizziness, weakness, headaches, restlessness, or fatigue.
In such a situation, it is important to know what steps to take if your health deteriorates while fasting, and which symptoms should not be ignored. This article outlines the immediate actions to take if you experience dizziness or weakness during the fast.
If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down immediately.
If you suddenly feel dizzy, experience a darkening of your vision, or feel weak while observing the Karwa Chauth fast, sit down or lie down in a safe place immediately. Avoid standing up or walking suddenly, as this increases the risk of falling and sustaining an injury. If possible, seek assistance from a family member and rest until you feel completely recovered.
Inform family members if you experience weakness or restlessness.
Do not try to hide it if you feel weak, uneasy, or restless while fasting. Immediately inform your husband or another family member about how you are feeling. Going without food or water for an extended period can take a toll on your body. Instead of staying alone or continuing with household chores, take some rest. If the symptoms worsen or persist, consult a doctor.
Recognize the signs of dehydration.
Observing a *nirjala* (waterless) fast can lead to dehydration. Symptoms may include a dry mouth, intense thirst, reduced urination, dark yellow urine, headaches, and dizziness.
Do not ignore extreme weakness or dizziness that occurs when standing up. If your health begins to deteriorate, do not delay drinking water just to complete the fast.
If it becomes necessary to break the fast, drink water slowly—provided you are conscious and able to swallow safely.
Seek immediate medical attention in cases of severe dehydration.
While the Karwa Chauth fast is rooted in faith and tradition, your health must take priority if you begin to feel unwell. If you experience persistent dizziness, extreme weakness, tremors, or a feeling of impending fainting, do not pressure yourself to continue the fast.
In such a situation, it may be necessary to drink water and consume something light. If symptoms are severe, seek medical help rather than relying on home remedies.
Consume water and light food after breaking the fast.
If you have to break your fast due to weakness or dizziness, aim to gradually restore your body to its normal state.
Start by sipping water slowly; avoid consuming a large amount of water all at once.
Eat light, easily digestible food, such as *khichdi* (a dish of rice and lentils), a banana, or toast.
Avoid consuming large quantities of deep-fried or spicy food.
If a person faints or is unable to swallow properly, do not attempt to give them food or water; seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
Take symptoms like fainting, chest pain, or difficulty breathing very seriously.
Certain symptoms may indicate a more serious issue than mere weakness. If you experience fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, seizures, or sudden, extreme weakness—either during or after the fast—seek emergency medical assistance immediately.